Abstract

Value sensitive design is a theoretically grounded approach to the design
of technology that accounts for human values in a principled and
systematic manner throughout the design process. In this article we
provide a survey of 14 value sensitive design methods: (1) direct and
indirect stakeholder analysis; (2) value source analysis; (3) co-evolution
of technology and social structure; (4) value scenario; (5) value sketch;
(6) value-oriented semi- structured interview; (7) scalable information
dimensions; (8) value-oriented coding manual; (9) value-oriented mockup,
prototype, or field deployment; (10) ethnographically informed inquiry
regarding values and technology; (11) model of informed consent
online; (12) value dams and flows; (13) value sensitive action-reflection
model; and (14) Envisioning Cards TM. Each of these methods is honed
to the investigation of values in technology, serving such purposes
as stakeholder identification and legitimation, value representation and
elicitation, and values analysis. While presented individually, the methods
are intended to be integrated in a robust value sensitive design
process. The survey article begins with a brief summary of value sensitive
design methodology and theoretical constructs. We next provide
an overview of the 14 methods. Then, we turn to a broader discussion of
value sensitive design practice, focussing on some methodological strategies
and heuristics to support skillful value sensitive design practice.
Following the broad discussion of practice, we illustrate one method in
action—value scenarios—providing details on its range of purposes and
contexts. We conclude with reflections on core characteristics of value
sensitive design methodology, and heuristics for innovation.

A Survey of Value Sensitive Design Methods

Value sensitive design is a theoretically grounded approach to the design of technology that accounts for human
values in a principled and systematic manner throughout the design process.

A Survey of Value Sensitive Design Methods looks at 14 value sensitive design methods, each of
which is honed to the investigation of values in technology, serving such purposes as stakeholder identification
and legitimation, value representation and elicitation, and values analysis. While presented individually, the
methods are intended to be integrated in a robust value sensitive design process.

A Survey of Value Sensitive Design Methods begins with a summary of value sensitive design
methodology and theoretical constructs. Having introduced the 14 methods, it turns to a broader discussion of
value sensitive design practice, focusing on some methodological strategies and heuristics to support skillful
value sensitive design practice. Following the broad discussion of practice, it illustrates one method in
action—value scenarios—providing details on its range of purposes and contexts. It concludes with reflections
on core characteristics of value sensitive design methods, and heuristics for methodological innovation.